Milwaukee Auto Technician Borescope

Navigating the intricacies of automotive inspection can be quite the challenge, especially when it involves peering into the nooks and crannies of an engine. That’s where the Milwaukee Auto Technician Borescope, model 3150-20, comes into play. The borescope is engineered to provide a thorough inspection, particularly in tight spaces like glow plug holes and fuel injector ports. After putting this tool through its paces, I have a comprehensive take on its strengths and weaknesses.

The first thing that struck me about this borescope was its 5mm camera head. This small size is a game-changer for accessing tight spaces that are otherwise unreachable with larger tools. Whether it's spark plug holes or even rifle barrels, the camera head slides in effortlessly, providing a clear view of what lies within.

One of the standout features is the dual-camera system. The front and side view cameras are equipped with adjustable LED brightness, which is particularly useful when dealing with poorly lit areas. This dual-camera setup eliminates the need for cumbersome mirrors that can fall off or get stuck, a common issue with traditional inspection tools. The ability to switch between the two cameras without having to remove the borescope is a significant time-saver and adds a layer of convenience that is hard to beat.

The 4.3” rotatable screen is another feature worth mentioning. It offers a high-definition display with 4x zoom capability, allowing for detailed inspections. The screen's rotatability ensures that you can get the best viewing angle, regardless of the position you find yourself in. Additionally, the inclusion of a 32GB SD card means you can easily store and share photos and videos, making documentation straightforward and hassle-free.

However, the tool is not without its flaws. One of the most significant drawbacks I encountered was the focal distance. The minimum focal distance is about 1 inch, which means anything closer than that is out of focus. This can be a deal-breaker for some tasks, particularly when you need to inspect very small or intricate components up close. While the overall picture quality is excellent, this limitation can be frustrating.

Another point of concern is the durability of the camera cable. During my testing, I noticed that the cable had a tendency to short out, particularly after extended use. This is a critical issue, especially for professionals who rely on their tools for prolonged periods. Milwaukee does offer a field-replaceable camera cable, but the inconvenience of dealing with a shorted cable can disrupt workflow and cause delays.

On a more positive note, the HEAT SENSE™ Temperature Alert technology is a thoughtful addition. This feature helps prevent the tool from overheating, extending its lifespan and ensuring consistent performance. The tool's build quality is also commendable, made from glass-filled nylon, which offers a good balance of durability and weight. At 1.75 lbs, it’s light enough to handle comfortably for extended periods, yet robust enough to withstand the rigors of daily use.

The Milwaukee Auto Technician Borescope operates on the M12 battery system, which is a plus for those already invested in Milwaukee’s ecosystem. The cordless design adds to the tool’s portability and ease of use, allowing for greater flexibility in various work environments.

Given the mixed bag of features and issues, would I recommend this borescope? For the most part, yes. The tool excels in areas that matter most for automotive inspections—accessibility, dual-camera functionality, and high-definition display. These features make it a valuable asset for any auto technician or DIY enthusiast. The focal distance issue is a notable drawback, but it's not a deal-breaker for most applications. The shorting cable is a more significant concern, but the field-replaceable design mitigates this to some extent.

In summary, the Milwaukee Auto Technician Borescope is a well-rounded tool that offers excellent performance in tight spaces, backed by thoughtful features and solid build quality. While it has its flaws, the benefits outweigh the drawbacks, making it a worthwhile investment for those in need of a reliable inspection tool.